A RESPONSE TO TRAGEDY

Mourn with the families of victims of the terrible events of September 11th;
Give thanks for the outpouring of prayer, support and assistance in the wake of the tragedies;
Implore New Yorkers to keep their hearts open during the profound changes we are experiencing together and
Encourage all people everywhere to turn destruction into an opportunity to build a world in which peace and understanding prevail.

We have all been profoundly affected by our experiences of the past week In the midst of personal turmoil we have seen many people open their hearts and come together in incredible acts of support and generosity. People gathered for prayer services and vigils, donated blood, and searched for ways to show their concern. Such openness and generosity remind us that our God desires life and wholeness.

The scale of destruction visited upon peaceful citizens is an unprecedented experience for us in this country. We have been targets of hatred, and witnessed unspeakable violence. For some the response may be to call for revenge. Already, ethnic groups have been scapegoated and there have been calls for great retaliatory action.

It will not be easy to find an answer to the question, "What is the just response to the evil that occurred?" Our traditions lead us to seek a response that is true to the values we profess. As we struggle for answers, we will wonder, "Why do people hate us so much?" and "What good will be served by moving terror to another part of the world?"

May we keep our hearts and minds open so that the whole of our common humanity will benefit from the choices we make. We have seen the fruits of hatred. We have also seen the blessings of love shared. We have seen images of strength gone in less than an hour, and the strength of a community coming together. If we want to turn this event into a defining, healing moment in history, we will strive to preserve the blessings of love shared and the strength of community.

"As I live, says the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from their ways and live. . . ." (Ezekiel 33:11)

Let us pray that we will not lose the bonds that connect us, that we have the courage to speak out against intolerance, violence and bitterness, that the legacy of this horrendous event be to strengthen our resolve to seek understanding and friendship.

For further information: Mary Lu Bowen, Executive Director 518-436-9319